New map reveals England’s road conditions by local authority

New Traffic Light Tool for Road Maintenance in England

The Department for Transport (DfT) has introduced a new traffic light tool for roads across England. This system indicates whether roads are rated red, amber, or green based on their conditions and the effectiveness of local highway authorities in spending road maintenance funding.

Local Authorities Rated Red

Drivers in Cumberland (Cumbria), Bolton (Greater Manchester), Leicestershire, Suffolk, and Kensington and Chelsea (west London) received bad news. All these areas are classified as red under the new system.

Support for Red Authorities

The DfT stated that authorities rated red will get “dedicated support to bring them into line with best practices.” This support comes through a £300,000 programme.

Amber and Green Ratings

Most local highway authorities are rated amber. Green-rated areas include Essex, Wiltshire, Coventry, Leeds, and Darlington (County Durham). The DfT noted that green areas follow “best practice” by investing in long-term measures instead of just fixing potholes.

Funding for Road Maintenance

This map follows the government’s commitment to provide £7.3 billion for local road maintenance funding from now until 2029/30. This was part of last year’s budget. For the current financial year, the government provided nearly £1.6 billion for local road maintenance, a £500 million increase from the previous year.

Withholding of Funds

However, a quarter of the extra funding was withheld until the end of last year, after authorities outlined their spending plans.

Statements from Officials

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said, “For too long drivers have paid the price because our roads were left to deteriorate.” She added that drivers should not have to spend money on pothole damage.

She emphasized that the government has increased funding for local highway authorities. “Now it’s over to them to spend the money wisely,” she said.

Impact of Potholes

Common issues caused by potholes include damaged shock absorbers, broken suspension springs, and distorted wheels, according to the RAC. The RAC estimates that a typical repair bill for a family car suffering pothole damage beyond a puncture is £590.

Comments from the RAC

RAC head of policy Simon Williams stated, “While there are examples of good road maintenance practice, this isn’t consistent across the country.” He hopes the new initiative will lead to smoother, better roads.

Criticism from Shadow Transport Secretary

Shadow transport secretary Richard Holden criticized the initiative, saying, “A map won’t stop tyres blowing or suspensions snapping.” He argued that motorists deserve real action to support them.